COURSE DESCRIPTION:

This course covers important design and construction aspects associated with ground improvement techniques including Vertical Drains, Lightweight Fills, Vibro-Compaction, Dynamic Compaction, Stone Columns, Deep Soil Mixing, Column Supported Embankments, MSE Walls and Reinforced Soil Slopes, Soil Nailing, and Grouting. The goal of the course is to help participants determine the applicability and preliminary cost analysis for techniques that could be employed to improve the ground to permit construction of geotechnical facilities for transportation applications.

Participants will develop an appreciation for exploring and characterizing subsurface soil and rock in the laboratory, as well as the requisite design parameters necessary to develop a preliminary design and cost estimate. Instructors will discuss and summarize the advantages and limitations of each method. The course is designed to elicit maximum input from participants particularly regarding their understanding of application criteria, the impact of geotechnical features on the long-term performance, and contracting methods.

OUTCOMES:

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to:

Locate criteria to determine the applicability of each ground improvement method for a specific project and soil condition under consideration

Summarize key elements of a preferred contracting method for each technique

Develop a preliminary cost estimate based on a preliminary design

TARGET AUDIENCE:

The target audience is bridge, geotechnical, or transportation engineers with 0 to 20 years of experience and responsible for the planning, design, or construction for ground improvement on surface transportation facilities.

The National Highway Institute (NHI) has been accredited as an Authorized Provider
by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
In obtaining this accreditation, NHI has demonstrated that it complies with the
ANSI/IACET Standard which is recognized internationally as a standard of good practice.
As a result of their Authorized Provider status, NHI is authorized to offer IACET CEUs
for its programs that qualify under the ANSI/IACET Standard.